Best Water Law Lawyers in Brazil

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Saboia e Silva Advogados
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Portuguese
English
Energy, Environment & ESG Water Law Environmental Law & Compliance +6 more
O Saboia e Silva Advogados, não apenas praticamos direito — criamos soluções jurídicas sob medida.Nossa equipe é o ponto de confiança para líderes empresariais, investidores e indivíduos que valorizam confidencialidade, análise precisa e uma abordagem focada em resultados.🔹 Nossos...
GTLawyers
São Paulo, Brazil

Founded in 2017
50 people in their team
English
Portuguese
French
GTLawyers - Your Strategic Legal Partner in BrazilAt GTLawyers, we pride ourselves on being a boutique full-service law firm based in São Paulo, with over a decade of experience delivering exceptional legal services. Our team comprises highly qualified lawyers with extensive expertise in...
Advocacia Oliveira Lima
Guarulhos, Brazil

Founded in 2010
English
Advocacia Oliveira Lima, established in 2010, is a distinguished law firm based in Guarulhos, São Paulo, renowned for its comprehensive legal services across multiple practice areas. The firm specializes in labor law, business management consulting, civil law, divorce and family law, insurance...
Demarest Lawyers
São Paulo, Brazil

Founded in 1948
1,000 people in their team
Portuguese
English
More than 75 years in the legal market have established us as one of the most respected law firms in Brazil and Latin America. Our experience has taught us that, in order to stay up to date with the demands of the market, we must not only value our history, but also have the courage to reinvent the...
SABZ Advogados
São Paulo, Brazil

Founded in 2006
50 people in their team
Portuguese
English
But after all, what is SABZTech?More than just a project or new area of ​​activity for SABZ Advogados, SABZTech is an innovative initiative for the development of the startup ecosystem in Brazil. Our proposal is to produce and disseminate legal knowledge that is relevant and useful to anyone...
Licks Attorneys
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Founded in 2011
500 people in their team
Portuguese
English
Licks Attorneys is one of Brazil’s most respected law firms in litigation. Our commitment to clients is unprecedent in the country. We focus on complex litigation, often technology-driven disputes. Our lawyers have an outstanding track-record handling the most high-profile intellectual property...
Guaruja, Brazil

English
BarretoSantos Advocacia stands out as a specialist law firm with a distinguished track record in administrative law, bankruptcy proceedings, business management consulting, civil law, and labor relations. The firm is widely recognized for its comprehensive legal services, crafted to meet the unique...
São Bernardo do Campo, Brazil

English
Sol Nascente is a distinguished accounting firm based in São Paulo, Brazil, with a legacy dating back to 1980. Over the past four decades, the firm has cultivated enduring relationships, maintaining over 45 active clients for more than 30 years. This longevity underscores their commitment to...
Motta Fernandes Lawyers
São Paulo, Brazil

Founded in 1956
200 people in their team
Portuguese
English
Over our 60-year history, we have chosen to gradually increase our number of partners and associates to allow an organic growth enabling Motta Fernandes to broaden its practice areas.The full range of services we offer and the quality of our lawyers, allows Motta Fernandes to provide excellence in...

Founded in 2025
3 people in their team
Portuguese
English
Spanish
Turkish
Will & Pereira is an international law firm known for delivering high-quality legal services across multiple practice areas, including business law, administrative law, real estate, labor, and cross-border transactions. With a client-focused approach and a multicultural team, the firm combines...
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About Water Law in Brazil

Water Law in Brazil is a vital legal field that governs the management, distribution, use, and protection of water resources within the country. Brazil holds a significant portion of the world’s freshwater reserves, which makes its regulatory framework especially important. Water Law seeks to balance the needs of diverse users such as agriculture, industry, urban centers, and the environment, ensuring sustainable use and fair distribution of water resources. The Federal Constitution, federal laws, state regulations, and international treaties collectively shape Water Law in Brazil.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal issues related to water resources can be complex, involving multiple levels of regulations and stakeholders. Individuals and businesses may need a Water Law attorney for several reasons, including:

  • Obtaining or disputing water use rights or permits for agricultural, industrial, or commercial purposes
  • Addressing conflicts between neighboring landowners or different users regarding water access
  • Navigating disputes involving water pollution, contamination, or environmental impacts
  • Ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal water regulations
  • Participating in public hearings or challenging administrative decisions affecting water resources
  • Involvement in infrastructure or development projects that could impact water bodies
  • Negotiate or draft water use agreements associated with real estate transactions

Local Laws Overview

The Brazilian Water Law framework is grounded in several key legal instruments:

  • The Federal Constitution establishes water resources as public property and mandates government regulation and protection of water
  • Law No. 9.433/1997, known as the "Water Law", creates the National Water Resources Policy and the National Water Resources Management System
  • Water resources are publicly owned either by the Union (federal rivers, lakes, or bodies crossing state borders) or the states (water resources entirely within a single state)
  • Water management is decentralized and participative, involving river basin committees composed of users, civil society, and government agencies
  • The principle of charging for the use of water applies to promote rational and sustainable usage
  • Licensing and permitting systems are mandatory for significant water uses such as withdrawal, effluent discharge, or dam construction
  • Specific rules address water pollution control and environmental licensing, enforced by agencies at federal, state, and municipal levels

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered a public water resource in Brazil?

Public water resources include rivers, lakes, streams, and underground aquifers. They are owned and regulated by either the Union or the states, according to their geographic scope.

Who can obtain the right to use water in Brazil?

Both individuals and legal entities, such as companies and farmers, may request water use rights from the relevant government authority. These rights are usually granted through permits or concessions.

How are water use conflicts resolved?

Conflicts are typically addressed through administrative procedures, mediation by river basin committees, or litigation in court if necessary. Specialized legal assistance may be required for complex disputes.

Is it necessary to pay for the use of water?

Yes, in many cases, users who withdraw significant amounts of water or discharge effluents must pay fees. The collected funds support water management and infrastructure projects.

How is water pollution regulated?

Water pollution is regulated by federal and state laws, requiring permits for effluent discharge and imposing penalties for violations. Environmental agencies monitor compliance and enforce standards.

Can water rights be transferred or sold?

Generally, water rights are not fully transferable or privately owned. Some forms of transfer, such as assignment of use in specific contexts, may be allowed with government approval.

What are river basin committees?

River basin committees are participatory management bodies composed of water users, civil society, and government representatives. They help create policies, resolve conflicts, and oversee water usage within their regions.

Do real estate transactions require attention to water rights?

Yes. When property involves significant water resources or water-dependent activities, legal review is recommended to ensure proper permits and compliance with regulations.

What are the main penalties for violating Water Law?

Penalties for violations may include fines, permit suspension or revocation, remediation requirements, or even criminal liability in severe cases of environmental harm.

Who enforces Water Law in Brazil?

Enforcement is carried out by federal, state, and sometimes municipal environmental agencies, such as ANA (Agência Nacional de Águas) and state environmental secretariats.

Additional Resources

The following organizations and governmental agencies can offer further information or support:

  • Agência Nacional de Águas (ANA) - The National Water Agency oversees the management of federal water resources and provides public information
  • Ministério do Meio Ambiente (Ministry of the Environment) - Sets environmental policies including water protection
  • State and municipal environment secretariats - Manage local water regulation and enforcement
  • River Basin Committees - Offer participatory forums for local stakeholders to engage in water management
  • Brazilian Bar Association (Ordem dos Advogados do Brasil - OAB) - Can provide referrals to qualified Water Law attorneys

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance in the field of Water Law in Brazil, consider the following steps:

  • Gather all relevant documents such as water permits, balance reports, notices, or correspondence from authorities
  • Identify the specific issue or conflict and note the parties involved
  • Contact a lawyer who specializes in environmental or Water Law for a consultation
  • Prepare questions and clarify your objectives with your legal advisor
  • Engage with governmental agencies or river basin committees if the issue may be resolved through administrative or mediation routes
  • Follow your lawyer’s guidance on compliance, negotiation, or legal proceedings as your case may require

Water Law in Brazil is intricate, influenced by multiple layers of legislation and a strong emphasis on collective management. Seeking specialized legal advice ensures your interests are protected and helps you navigate this complex legal field effectively.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Brazil through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Water Law, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Brazil - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.